Okay for its age, but not quite up to modern standards. ABS on Ghia and V6. You get a driver’s airba and, passenger airbag from Aug ’97. Sister Sharan got three stars (out of four) on Euro NCAP test in 1999. Immobiliser plus fairly secure locks. An alarm is standard only on top Ultima, optional on all other models.

The rear five seats are removable and can also fold/tumble. It’s handy, because there’s not enough room for them and luggage. The five rear seats can be positioned in a number of configurations. There’s plenty of legroom for all, although getting out of the third row of seats isn’t gracious.